In Paris, this 100-year-old Montmartre restaurant was the secret haunt of Manet, Picasso and Van Gogh – and it still serves the absinthe that made its legend.

Le Bon Bock, Montmartre’s oldest restaurant

Founded in 1879, Le Bon Bock has always been a Montmartre favorite. Here, in its cosy, warm setting, there ‘s still a gentle whiff of nostalgia. With its patinated woodwork, pretty murals, paintings and period objects, it’s almost like being in a film set. A real journey back in time, where every object has a story and a soul. No wonder the address quickly became a secret haunt for artists: Manet, Picasso, Van Gogh, Apollinaire… They all liked to come here to drink absinthe… A beverage that made the place famous, and which you can still taste today.

You’ll notice dozens of paintings decorating the premises. These were donated by local artists who, lacking the funds to pay for their meals, would give up one of their works in exchange to settle their bill. Most are unsigned, but there’s a certain cohesion in the restaurant’s themes. As a matter of fact, the Bon Bock still keeps over twenty paintings in its cellar. That’s how much artists loved this place!

Taken over today by Benjamin Moréel and Christopher Prêchez, former owners of Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond, the restaurant has retained its old-world charm. Open Wednesday to Sunday, you’ll enjoy typical French cuisine. We’re particularly fond of the duck with Suzette sauce and melting potatoes, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes. The XXL Normandy beef rib to share is absolutely divine! Finally, for dessert, the creamy cabbage with crushed caramelized hazelnuts will completely melt your heart.

In the evening, when the candles gently light up the tables, the Bon Bock takes on a timeless atmosphere. Behind the main room, a more intimate space reveals a piano that becomes the beating heart of festive nights. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the piano-voice evenings come to life here: sometimes with guest artists, sometimes improvised by the guests themselves. In this hushed setting, with a glass of absinthe in hand, you’ll let yourself be carried away by the magic of the moment.

A marvellous restaurant, a true witness to the Belle Époque, to be tried at least once in Paris.